Contract Analyst – Information Technology (IT)

About Kirkland & Ellis

At Kirkland & Ellis, we are united in our ambition and drive to move forward. We share core values that help us achieve excellence: collaboration, talent empowerment, service, inclusion, respect and gratitude. Our people are our greatest asset, and we invest in the brightest talent and encourage a diversity of perspectives and strengths to create dynamic teams that operate at the pinnacle of their field. Our talented professionals show up every day knowing they will engage in meaningful work, continuous learning and professional development.

As one of the world’s leading law firms, we serve a broad range of clients with market-leading practices. We handle the most complicated and sophisticated legal matters because we don’t just meet industry standards, we create them. We bring innovation and entrepreneurialism to every engagement and, as a result, have long-standing client relationships with leading global corporations and financial sponsors. With over 6,500 employees (including approximately 4,000 lawyers) operating from 21 offices across the United States, Europe, the Middle East and Asia, we are one of the largest law firms in the world and a top financial performer.

Essential Job Functions

The Contract Analyst will support the review and negotiation of the Firm’s supplier agreements and manage the contract life cycle under the direction of Lead Procurement Counsel. This includes assisting the Firm’s business teams with contract intake, and drafting and finalizing various contractual instruments - including licensing agreements, services agreements, consulting agreements, renewals, and other commercial agreements. This role requires close collaboration with Procurement Counsel, business owners, and Strategic Sourcing professionals to support the Firm’s procurement activities in accordance with the Firm’s policies and risk management objectives.

Opportunities to expand responsibilities and progress within the Procurement department are available for individuals based on strong performance and the desire to grow.       

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS (This list is not exhaustive and may be supplemented and changed as necessary.)

• Drafting and legal review of contracting documents, ensuring compliance with Firm policies.
• Engage and coordinate internal stakeholders (e.g. Procurement Counsel, stakeholders, subject matter experts) as needed.
• Support the Procurement organization in reviewing commercial and technology service contracts, license and maintenance renewals, and other contractual documents.
• Advise business teams and department team members regarding key commercial and legal considerations. Assist with interpretation of existing contract language and contract strategy, as needed.
• Prepare and disseminate information regarding contract activity and various criteria, as needed.
• Provide guidance, and escalate where appropriate, when business or legal issues occur during the course of existing contract relationships.
• Keep current on best practices as it relates to contract structure, legal terms, and/or laws which may affect the Firm’s relationship with its vendors.

Qualifications & Requirements

• A juris doctor degree is required.
• One (1) or more years of prior commercial contract review experience within a corporate legal or finance department.
• Strong analytical, problem solving, and project management skills; strong attention to detail and organizational skills are critical.
• Ability to adapt easily to new software and other web-based tools.
• Individuals in this role are expected to exhibit strong customer service and good judgment in communications with attorneys, staff, and vendors of the Firm, including safeguarding the confidentiality of client and Firm information.
• Attention to detail, the capacity to learn, and implementation of feedback in a consistent manner within a dynamic and growing environment are imperative.

Technologies/Software

• A working knowledge of MS Office suite with advanced Word editing skills are required.
• A working knowledge of Adobe Acrobat Pro is preferred.
• A working knowledge of DocuSign is preferred.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

This job operates in a professional office environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers and phones.

This job is a hybrid position with a mix of remote and in-office presence.

Compensation

The base salary range below represents the low and high end of the salary range for this position in Chicago. This range may differ based on your geographic location and cost of living considerations. At Kirkland & Ellis, we consider compensation more than just a base salary. We offer an exceptional range of flexible benefits including comprehensive healthcare, paid time off, and retirement. We also offer personal support and tailored learning and development opportunities all designed to help you realize your full potential both in life and at work.

Compensation Range:

• Chicago: $90,000 - $110,000

How to Apply

Thank you for your interest in Kirkland & Ellis LLP.  To complete an application and submit your resume, please click "Apply Now."

Equal Employment Opportunity

All employment decisions, including the recruiting, hiring, placement, training availability, promotion, compensation, evaluation, disciplinary actions, and termination of employment (if necessary) are made without regard to the employee’s race, color, creed, religion, sex, pregnancy or childbirth, personal appearance, family responsibilities, sexual orientation or preference, gender identity, political affiliation, source of income, place of residence, national or ethnic origin, ancestry, age, marital status, military veteran status, unfavorable discharge from military service, physical or mental disability, or on any other basis prohibited by applicable law.

Closing Statement

The www.kirkland.com job postings and recruiting mailbox are for candidates only. If you are a recruiter, search firm or employment agency, and do not have a signed contract with Kirkland & Ellis LLP ("K&E") and have not been asked specifically to submit candidates, you will not be compensated in any way for your referral of a candidate even if K&E hires the candidate. Direct contact with K&E employees in an attempt to present candidates is inappropriate and will be a factor in determining any future professional relationship with the Firm. #LI-Hybrid #LI-MP1